Food and Drink North East (FADNE) consulted with over 165 food and drink producers from across our region. Asking them how the COVID-19 crisis will affect their businesses. The results were startling, to say the least, with many stating the resultant downturn in trade would mean they could go out of business within one to three months.

With the support shown on this page FADNE have initiated #LocalHeroesNE to stimulate trade and kick-start cashflow to support the sector and save jobs.

#LocalHeroesNE is an online food market that promotes, sells and delivers high-quality local North East food and drink to homes and people across our region. The virtual market will launch in early May and we will post a link to the platform when live.

Supporters will be able to choose from a range of ‘Discovery Boxes’ and fantastic products from the best North East suppliers. The purchase of every box includes a 10% 'community fund' that will be used to support producers and those working with the vulnerable and socially isolated. The funds raised from the purchase of boxes and this ‘go fund me’ campaign will benefit those that need it most. We’re developing the fund at the moment alongside launching this campaign - more information on the administration of this fund will be available soon. Whilst we’re working on it, we will be committing the first £1000 raised to helping local people in crisis via the Newcastle West End Foodbank.

This initiative is currently completely self-funded and is being built from the grassroots up with the help a number companies, organisations and individuals with experience in storage, logistics, distribution, transport and digital technology who are all eager to see it succeed. Please help us support local businesses and communities - buy a discovery box, support local, tell your friends. Thank you for your kindness and your commitment to our incredible North East food and drink producers and businesses.

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